What is the estimated annual incidence of internal vertebral artery dissection (VAD)?

What is the estimated annual incidence of internal vertebral artery dissection (VAD)?

• A. 3-4 per 100,000 patients
• B. 1-1.5 per 100,000 patients
• C. 5-6 per 100,000 patients
• D. 0.7-1.2 per 100,000 patients

Answer: (B)

The estimated annual incidence of internal vertebral artery dissection (VAD) is approximately 1-1.5 per 100,000 patients. This relatively low incidence reflects the rarity of the condition, which occurs when there is a tear in the inner wall of the vertebral artery, leading to potential complications such as stroke. Understanding this statistic is crucial for healthcare professionals, including chiropractors, as it highlights the importance of being aware of VAD as a possible complication in patients presenting with neck pain or after cervical manipulation. This figure also emphasizes the need for careful patient assessment and history-taking to identify any risk factors associated with VAD, despite its low occurrence. It provides a baseline for practitioners to remain vigilant for symptoms that could indicate vascular involvement while managing spinal health.

The estimated annual incidence of internal vertebral artery dissection (VAD) is approximately 1-1.5 per 100,000 patients. This relatively low incidence reflects the rarity of the condition, which occurs when there is a tear in the inner wall of the vertebral artery, leading to potential complications such as stroke.

Understanding this statistic is crucial for healthcare professionals, including chiropractors, as it highlights the importance of being aware of VAD as a possible complication in patients presenting with neck pain or after cervical manipulation. This figure also emphasizes the need for careful patient assessment and history-taking to identify any risk factors associated with VAD, despite its low occurrence. It provides a baseline for practitioners to remain vigilant for symptoms that could indicate vascular involvement while managing spinal health.